Updated 2024 Approved Windows 11/10 Video Editing Best iMovie-Like Software Options

Updated 2024 Approved Windows 11/10 Video Editing Best iMovie-Like Software Options

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Windows 11/10 Video Editing: Best iMovie-Like Software Options

Are you looking for an iMovie for Windows alternative? If so, that’s hardly surprising. Mac users are blessed with iMovie, a very handy video editing software. Unfortunately, like many Apple products, it’s unavailable on computers that run on Windows OS. But don’t worry. While there’s no iMovie for windows, there are plenty of alternatives. They will make you feel like you are actually using a Windows version of iMovie. This article will introduce you to the best ones.

wondershare filmora video editor

  1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software
  2. WeVideo - Best For Templates
  1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library
  2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag
  3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos
  4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva
  5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments
  6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool
  7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work
  8. Lightworks
  9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor
  10. WeVideo - Best for Templates
  11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

Top 2 Picks for iMovie for Windows Alternative

As mentioned above, there’s a lot of video editing software you can use as an iMovie equivalent for Windows. However, they are not of equal quality. Expectedly, some of them are miles better than others. Therefore, it’s best to do your research before installing - or buying one. That allows you to select the best one for you and, thus, ensure your satisfaction.

Here’s a quick comparison of the top 3 iMovie alternatives for Windows:

Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software

Paid | 4.7 • 693 Ratings

Wondershare Filmora has a slew of powerful video editing tools that let you express your creativity to its fullest. It allows you to make high-quality, impressive, and captivating videos easily.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

WeVideo - Best For Templates

Paid | 4.5 • 783 Ratings

WeVideo is a web-based video editor with customizable templates perfect for beginners and influencers. It has social media-friendly templates for very specific and popular categories like Unboxings and How-To Makeup.

Ultimate Overview on 11 Best Alternatives to iMovie for Windows

There’s a total of 12 best iMovie alternatives for Windows. Each one is different from the others, but they are all solid choices. Here’s a table showing information about each product:

Software OS Beginner Friendly (score/5) AI Editing Royalty-Free Stock Library Free Trial Cost-Effective (score/5)
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac 4.5 4.7
PowerDirector Windows, Mac 5 4.4
APowerEdit Windows, Mac, Online 5 X X 4.5
Typito Windows, Mac 4.5 X 4.2
ShotCut Windows, Mac, Linux 3.5 X 5
AceThinker Video Master Windows 4 X 4
VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac, Linux 4.4 X 4.1
LightWorks Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4
FlexClip Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4.5
WeVideo Windows, Mac, Linux 4 X 4.5
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux 4.5 X 4.5

11 Best Windows Version of iMovie

All of these 12 iMovie alternatives for Windows 10+ are good choices. However, they have differences, meaning one may be suited for you more than the others. Here’s more information about each one, including the pros and cons, ratings, supported OS, and even user reviews.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library

Wondershare Filmora is a powerful video editing tool. Its features allow you to showcase your creativity fully. This tool can make your homemade videos look professionally made.

wondershare filmora on windows

Key Features

  • Picture in Picture - Layer in multiple video clips
  • Green Screen - Change the video background and add effects using this feature
  • Split Screen - Show numerous videos at once with the split screen feature
  • Color Match - Save time by applying color correction settings across multiple clips with one click
  • Video Stabilizing - Eliminate Camera Shake
  • Speech to Text - Convert voice to subtitles in one click
  • Text to Speech - Add AI voiceover to liven up your video

Price

Filmora Costs $49.99 per year for individual users. Meanwhile, it costs $155.88 per year for businesses with one user.

Pros

  • PCMag says Wondershare Filmora has an eye-soothing interface. It’s not intimidating for beginners. Furthermore, Filmora’s ergonomic design makes it an easy-to-use video editing tool
  • Wondershare Filmora has AI editing tools not found on the pre-installed video editor on your Windows PC. As the name suggests, it uses artificial intelligence to apply changes to video clips. Some examples of things you can do with these tools are erasing the background or applying a color correction to all clips with a single mouse click
  • Filmora has lots of effects and overlays you can choose from

Cons

  • High RAM consumption that can slow down your PC

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad

User Review

Wondershare Filmora is the video editing software that you need. It has a slew of powerful tools that help you make amazing videos. A TrustRadius Ratings and Review states, “I take advantage of it on a regular basis and make YouTube movies for my shoppers. Simple to create eye-catching movies.”

Takeaway

Wondershare Filmora is filled with AI editing tools that help users produce high-quality videos.

2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag

PowerDirector is an iMovie alternative for Windows with a bunch of unique tools and features. Despite being simple and easy to use, it allows you to create Hollywood-level films and clips.

powerdirector interface

Key Features

  • Easy 360-degree video editing
  • Keyframing
  • Chroma key
  • AI Motion Tracking
  • Picture in Picture

Price

PowerDirector’s premium subscription costs $4.08/month.

Pros

  • User Friendly
  • Simple but powerful plugins
  • Has AI Editing Tools
  • Thousands of built-in transitions, overlay effects, and templates

Cons

  • You can’t access the Shutterstock and iStock built-in libraries without a Premium subscription

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

Powerdirector enables you to do world-class video editing; it supports 4k, 60 fps video editing! Additionally, it has lots of stickers, transitions, animations, and many more. A G2 reviewer says, “Go for it, guys! It is one of the best editing platforms in the market.”

Takeaway

PowerDirector’s advanced tools make it among the best iMovie alternatives for Windows 10/11.

3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos

APowerEdit is a straightforward video editing tool with dozens of transitions, text effects, overlays, and filters.

apoweredit interface

Key Features

  • Supports all common media formats
  • Includes dynamic title captions
  • Dozens of overlays, transitions, and filters
  • Picture in Picture
  • Quickly correct brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation

Price

APowerEdit is free software with a paid version that costs$29.95 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to navigate due to its user-friendly design
  • Lots of export options
  • Dozens of editing tools

Cons

  • Lacks advanced editing tools needed for bigger projects

Supported OS: Windows, Mac, Online

User Review

APowerEdit is a simple video editing software best for beginners and not-so-tech-savvy users. An AlternativeTo review says, “Apoweredit is super easy to use. It is suitable for beginners like me. Awesome software!”

Takeaway

APowerEdit is a nice tool to have for beginners. However, if you plan to make impressive short films or bigger projects, it is not the ideal software to use.

4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva

Typito is like Canva but for videos. It is a web-based video editing software with drag-and-drop features, stylish typography, images, and brand layouts.

typito interface

Key Features

  • Drag-and-drop interface for easy editing
  • Features built for creating engaging social media posts.
  • Resize video files fast
  • Includes 200+ motion graphic templates

Price

Typito subscriptions start at $15 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple Export Options
  • Has all the basic video editing tools

Cons

  • Too basic for bigger projects
  • The free version has a watermark

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Typito is a web-based video editor and a simple, easy-to-use tool. It receives continuous updates, so it becomes better and better. A G2 review says , “In Typito, even if you are a “Free” user, you can still create a video that looks so professional as if you paid someone to do it for you.”

Takeaway

Typito’s solid selection of tools is enough for simple projects, and it’s one of the best iMovie alternatives for Windows for social media influencers. However, advanced users may find it a little lacking.

5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments

ShotCut is a completely free iMovie alternative for Windows. This tool is an open-source, cross-platform, video-editing software.

shotcut interface

Key Features

  • Webcam Capture
  • Keyframing
  • Auto-Rotate
  • Blending Modes
  • Unlimited Undo and Redo options
  • Powerful color correction tools

Price: Free

Pros

  • Because ShotCut is an open-source program, it gets updated regularly by the community
  • Completely free

Cons

  • No social media integrations
  • Not user-friendly

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Shotcut is free video editing software with a toolkit that rivals paid ones. A G2 review states, “We don’t have to pay anything, and we can edit the professional type of videos. It has all the features which any paid software has.”

Takeaway

Do you not want to spend money? If so, Shotcut is the option for you. It also has the strength of being available on many platforms. And because Shotcut is an open-source program, it gets regular updates from the community. However, its interface is not the most beginner-friendly.

6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool

AceThinker is a video editor, video converter, and video downloader in one package.

acethinker video master interface

Key Features

  • Built-in video player
  • HD video converter
  • Wide range of customization
  • Supports popular video formats
  • Basic video editing tools

Price

AceThinker Video Master’s pricing plans start from $29.95.

Pros

  • Video converter, downloader, editor, and screen recorder in one
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Lack of advanced video editing tools

G2 Rating: 5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac

User Review

AceThinker Video Master is all about convenience. It provides you with a video editor, downloader, and converter in one package. An educator left a review on G2 ; they say, “This has saved me lost time, increased student engagement, and [it is] a wonderful training tool for other educators.”

Takeaway

Is the storage space in your Windows PC running out? If that’s the case, AceThinker Video Master is a fantastic tool for you. It’s essentially four video apps in one package. And it’s not too shabby as video editing software, either. Expectedly, it’s not the best choice for making short films for competitions and projects of similar or bigger scale.

7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work

VideoPad Video Editor is among the most impressive iMovie alternatives for Windows. It has powerful tools that will help you create films that would wow the audience.

videopad video editor interface

Key Features

  • Over 50 Effects and Transitions
  • Supports all video formats
  • 3D Video Editing
  • 360-degree video support
  • Chroma key compositing
  • Camera Stabilizer
  • Speech-to-text feature

Price

VideoPad Home Edition costs $34.99, while the Master’s Edition costs $69.95.

Pros

  • Has basic and advanced tools
  • Direct upload to popular social media channels
  • Fast video stream processor

Cons

  • The interface is outdated
  • The speech-to-text feature is unreliable
  • The free version is full of annoying notifications

G2 Rating: 4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

VideoPad is an easy-to-learn video editing software full of helpful tools. A G2 reviewer states, “This complete and powerful media editing tool offers a variety of possibilities and possibilities to optimize every clip to the fullest.”

Takeaway

VideoPad Video Editor has many free features you can use to improve your videos. Admittedly, there are problems with some of these features. Nevertheless, this tool is a solid choice for a Windows iMovie alternative.

8. Lightworks

Lightworks Pro is a video editor used to make some Oscar-winning films, and Lightworks is a free and less complicated version of it. However, Lightworks is still not that beginner-friendly. Therefore, it’s best to consider this as an iMovie alternative only if you are an intermediate user.

lightworks interface

Key Features

  • Advanced Color Correction
  • Some advanced tools
  • Tooltips to help you learn how to use the features
  • Integration to Cloud services
  • Keyframing
  • Advanced audio controls
  • Autosave

Price

Lightworks is free, but premium subscriptions for Lightworks Create costs $99.9, and Lightworks Pro costs $24.99.

Pros

  • Includes Advanced tools
  • You would not lose progress because of the autosave feature
  • Good performance

Cons

  • Not suited for beginners
  • You can only export up to 720p using the free version

G2 Rating: 3.5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

A TrustRadius Ratings and Review says, “Lightworks is a great tool for a non-designer to use because it provides a number of tools and capabilities that can be quickly learned.” However, they note that Lightworks does not provide advanced video editors with all the tools they need. It’s best for intermediate users.

Takeaway

Lightworks is a fantastic alternative to iMovie for Windows 10+ users. However, it requires you to be quite knowledgeable about video editing tools. This editor has a slightly higher learning curve than others. But once you learn how to use Lightworks, creating quality videos would be super easy.

9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor

flexclip interface

FlexClip is a free online editor. It is a good substitute for iMovie for Windows users, regardless if you are a beginner or a professional.

Key Features

  • Dozens of useful tools like background remover and gif maker
  • Voice and screen recorder
  • Integration with social media platforms
  • It supports all the popular video formats
  • Allows you to export up to 1080p

Price

FlexClip is free, but premium subscriptions are available. Subscriptions start from $9.99 per month.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced editing tools
  • Easy to share your work on social media platforms
  • Allows creation of high-quality videos

Cons

  • Long loading time before you can use it

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

FlexClip being an online video editor means one thing; it does not use your PC’s processing power. It also delivers what it promises. A G2 reviewe r says, “I have used many video editing tools so far, but none is close to FlexClip when it comes to video editing.”

Takeaway

You can’t go wrong with FlexClip. It has powerful tools making it a great iMovie alternative for Windows. You don’t even have to install it; it’s an online tool. Unfortunately, that has some downsides. You need to wait for the website to finish loading before working because it scrolls down for each line that gets loaded.

10. WeVideo - Best for Templates

WeVideo includes social-media-friendly templates, making it a fantastic choice for editing popular video categories like How-to, Unboxings, and Makeup tutorials.

Key Features

  • Color Correction
  • Green Screen Editing Tool
  • Has support for square videos (for Instagram) and vertical videos (for TikTok)
  • Customizable templates plus dozens of pre-made ones

Price

Premium subscriptions start at $60 per year.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced video editing tools
  • Excellent customer support
  • User-friendly

Cons

  • The free version has lots of limitations
  • Importing videos to the website takes a long time

G2 Rating: 4.4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Social media influencers and marketers need to check out WeVideo. A reviewer of this video editing tool on G2 said, “It’s got a handful of Templates that you can use to explore your creativity and inventiveness when creating your content.”

Takeaway

WeVideo is a solid alternative for iMovie for Windows 10/11, but only if you are willing to pay. The free version has lots of restrictions. For example, you can only export 5 minutes of content per month.

11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

openshot interface

OpenShot has a straightforward interface, making it beginner-friendly. It has some fantastic tools you’ll find helpful. There’s a catch with beginner-friendly editors, though. They don’t have the advanced features you can find on other video editors. You can say that for OpenShot.

Key Features

  • 3D Animation
  • Text Editor
  • Keyframing
  • Decent selection of templates and filters

Price: Free

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Includes a wide range of editing tools
  • Lots of export options

Cons

  • Lack of advanced tools like Picture-in-Picture or Chroma Key
  • Very laggy to use sometimes

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

OpenShot is a great introductory software for video editing. Its simplicity, ergonomic design, and set of handy tools make it perfect for beginners. A G2 review states, “I do not have a degree in video editing, but the products from my Openshot edits were of high quality.”

Takeaway

Some tools are intimidating for beginners; there are many buttons, and you don’t know what each one does. That’s not a problem when using OpenShot. Its simple interface is easy to understand, making it the best tool for beginners.

How to Edit a Video with an iMovie Alternative on Windows

Knowing which are the best iMovie alternatives on Windows is not enough. Of course, you also need to learn how to use them. Here’s a guide on how to use Wondershare Filmora, the best overall iMovie alternative for Windows.

Step1 Launch Filmora. Then, if you want to, select the aspect ratio.

filmora interface

Step2 Click New Project, then wait for the video editor to load. Then, click Register to register the product.

Step3 Select the aspect ratio for the final cut. Click Project Settings from the File menu, then select your desired aspect ratio.

filmora project settings

Step4 Import the files you want to edit. Click the Import button in the upper left corner of the video editor. Select Import Media Files, then navigate to the location on your hard drive where the footage you want to edit is stored. Select the files you want to use in your project, then click Import.

importing files to filmora

Step5 Drag and drop the files to the timeline. Please note that the last one you add will always be placed after the previous one. Thus, you need to drag the file on the timeline to put it in the desired position. Press Play to preview.

adding files to filmora timeline

Step6 Apply visual effects, color correction, and other edits you want to make.

adding text to videos on filmora

Step7 Click Export to publish your video. Don’t forget to select your desired file format and resolution.

exporting videos from filmora

Here’s a video tutorial on how to use Wondershare Filmora

image / video 16:9

Final Words

It’s a shame that iMovie is not available on Windows 10/11 computers. Thankfully, there are alternatives you can use. Wondershare Filmora is an outstanding one. It allows you to do what you can do using iMovie and more.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Top 2 Picks for iMovie for Windows Alternative

As mentioned above, there’s a lot of video editing software you can use as an iMovie equivalent for Windows. However, they are not of equal quality. Expectedly, some of them are miles better than others. Therefore, it’s best to do your research before installing - or buying one. That allows you to select the best one for you and, thus, ensure your satisfaction.

Here’s a quick comparison of the top 3 iMovie alternatives for Windows:

Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software

Paid | 4.7 • 693 Ratings

Wondershare Filmora has a slew of powerful video editing tools that let you express your creativity to its fullest. It allows you to make high-quality, impressive, and captivating videos easily.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

WeVideo - Best For Templates

Paid | 4.5 • 783 Ratings

WeVideo is a web-based video editor with customizable templates perfect for beginners and influencers. It has social media-friendly templates for very specific and popular categories like Unboxings and How-To Makeup.

Ultimate Overview on 11 Best Alternatives to iMovie for Windows

There’s a total of 12 best iMovie alternatives for Windows. Each one is different from the others, but they are all solid choices. Here’s a table showing information about each product:

Software OS Beginner Friendly (score/5) AI Editing Royalty-Free Stock Library Free Trial Cost-Effective (score/5)
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac 4.5 4.7
PowerDirector Windows, Mac 5 4.4
APowerEdit Windows, Mac, Online 5 X X 4.5
Typito Windows, Mac 4.5 X 4.2
ShotCut Windows, Mac, Linux 3.5 X 5
AceThinker Video Master Windows 4 X 4
VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac, Linux 4.4 X 4.1
LightWorks Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4
FlexClip Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4.5
WeVideo Windows, Mac, Linux 4 X 4.5
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux 4.5 X 4.5

11 Best Windows Version of iMovie

All of these 12 iMovie alternatives for Windows 10+ are good choices. However, they have differences, meaning one may be suited for you more than the others. Here’s more information about each one, including the pros and cons, ratings, supported OS, and even user reviews.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library

Wondershare Filmora is a powerful video editing tool. Its features allow you to showcase your creativity fully. This tool can make your homemade videos look professionally made.

wondershare filmora on windows

Key Features

  • Picture in Picture - Layer in multiple video clips
  • Green Screen - Change the video background and add effects using this feature
  • Split Screen - Show numerous videos at once with the split screen feature
  • Color Match - Save time by applying color correction settings across multiple clips with one click
  • Video Stabilizing - Eliminate Camera Shake
  • Speech to Text - Convert voice to subtitles in one click
  • Text to Speech - Add AI voiceover to liven up your video

Price

Filmora Costs $49.99 per year for individual users. Meanwhile, it costs $155.88 per year for businesses with one user.

Pros

  • PCMag says Wondershare Filmora has an eye-soothing interface. It’s not intimidating for beginners. Furthermore, Filmora’s ergonomic design makes it an easy-to-use video editing tool
  • Wondershare Filmora has AI editing tools not found on the pre-installed video editor on your Windows PC. As the name suggests, it uses artificial intelligence to apply changes to video clips. Some examples of things you can do with these tools are erasing the background or applying a color correction to all clips with a single mouse click
  • Filmora has lots of effects and overlays you can choose from

Cons

  • High RAM consumption that can slow down your PC

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad

User Review

Wondershare Filmora is the video editing software that you need. It has a slew of powerful tools that help you make amazing videos. A TrustRadius Ratings and Review states, “I take advantage of it on a regular basis and make YouTube movies for my shoppers. Simple to create eye-catching movies.”

Takeaway

Wondershare Filmora is filled with AI editing tools that help users produce high-quality videos.

2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag

PowerDirector is an iMovie alternative for Windows with a bunch of unique tools and features. Despite being simple and easy to use, it allows you to create Hollywood-level films and clips.

powerdirector interface

Key Features

  • Easy 360-degree video editing
  • Keyframing
  • Chroma key
  • AI Motion Tracking
  • Picture in Picture

Price

PowerDirector’s premium subscription costs $4.08/month.

Pros

  • User Friendly
  • Simple but powerful plugins
  • Has AI Editing Tools
  • Thousands of built-in transitions, overlay effects, and templates

Cons

  • You can’t access the Shutterstock and iStock built-in libraries without a Premium subscription

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

Powerdirector enables you to do world-class video editing; it supports 4k, 60 fps video editing! Additionally, it has lots of stickers, transitions, animations, and many more. A G2 reviewer says, “Go for it, guys! It is one of the best editing platforms in the market.”

Takeaway

PowerDirector’s advanced tools make it among the best iMovie alternatives for Windows 10/11.

3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos

APowerEdit is a straightforward video editing tool with dozens of transitions, text effects, overlays, and filters.

apoweredit interface

Key Features

  • Supports all common media formats
  • Includes dynamic title captions
  • Dozens of overlays, transitions, and filters
  • Picture in Picture
  • Quickly correct brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation

Price

APowerEdit is free software with a paid version that costs$29.95 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to navigate due to its user-friendly design
  • Lots of export options
  • Dozens of editing tools

Cons

  • Lacks advanced editing tools needed for bigger projects

Supported OS: Windows, Mac, Online

User Review

APowerEdit is a simple video editing software best for beginners and not-so-tech-savvy users. An AlternativeTo review says, “Apoweredit is super easy to use. It is suitable for beginners like me. Awesome software!”

Takeaway

APowerEdit is a nice tool to have for beginners. However, if you plan to make impressive short films or bigger projects, it is not the ideal software to use.

4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva

Typito is like Canva but for videos. It is a web-based video editing software with drag-and-drop features, stylish typography, images, and brand layouts.

typito interface

Key Features

  • Drag-and-drop interface for easy editing
  • Features built for creating engaging social media posts.
  • Resize video files fast
  • Includes 200+ motion graphic templates

Price

Typito subscriptions start at $15 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple Export Options
  • Has all the basic video editing tools

Cons

  • Too basic for bigger projects
  • The free version has a watermark

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Typito is a web-based video editor and a simple, easy-to-use tool. It receives continuous updates, so it becomes better and better. A G2 review says , “In Typito, even if you are a “Free” user, you can still create a video that looks so professional as if you paid someone to do it for you.”

Takeaway

Typito’s solid selection of tools is enough for simple projects, and it’s one of the best iMovie alternatives for Windows for social media influencers. However, advanced users may find it a little lacking.

5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments

ShotCut is a completely free iMovie alternative for Windows. This tool is an open-source, cross-platform, video-editing software.

shotcut interface

Key Features

  • Webcam Capture
  • Keyframing
  • Auto-Rotate
  • Blending Modes
  • Unlimited Undo and Redo options
  • Powerful color correction tools

Price: Free

Pros

  • Because ShotCut is an open-source program, it gets updated regularly by the community
  • Completely free

Cons

  • No social media integrations
  • Not user-friendly

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Shotcut is free video editing software with a toolkit that rivals paid ones. A G2 review states, “We don’t have to pay anything, and we can edit the professional type of videos. It has all the features which any paid software has.”

Takeaway

Do you not want to spend money? If so, Shotcut is the option for you. It also has the strength of being available on many platforms. And because Shotcut is an open-source program, it gets regular updates from the community. However, its interface is not the most beginner-friendly.

6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool

AceThinker is a video editor, video converter, and video downloader in one package.

acethinker video master interface

Key Features

  • Built-in video player
  • HD video converter
  • Wide range of customization
  • Supports popular video formats
  • Basic video editing tools

Price

AceThinker Video Master’s pricing plans start from $29.95.

Pros

  • Video converter, downloader, editor, and screen recorder in one
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Lack of advanced video editing tools

G2 Rating: 5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac

User Review

AceThinker Video Master is all about convenience. It provides you with a video editor, downloader, and converter in one package. An educator left a review on G2 ; they say, “This has saved me lost time, increased student engagement, and [it is] a wonderful training tool for other educators.”

Takeaway

Is the storage space in your Windows PC running out? If that’s the case, AceThinker Video Master is a fantastic tool for you. It’s essentially four video apps in one package. And it’s not too shabby as video editing software, either. Expectedly, it’s not the best choice for making short films for competitions and projects of similar or bigger scale.

7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work

VideoPad Video Editor is among the most impressive iMovie alternatives for Windows. It has powerful tools that will help you create films that would wow the audience.

videopad video editor interface

Key Features

  • Over 50 Effects and Transitions
  • Supports all video formats
  • 3D Video Editing
  • 360-degree video support
  • Chroma key compositing
  • Camera Stabilizer
  • Speech-to-text feature

Price

VideoPad Home Edition costs $34.99, while the Master’s Edition costs $69.95.

Pros

  • Has basic and advanced tools
  • Direct upload to popular social media channels
  • Fast video stream processor

Cons

  • The interface is outdated
  • The speech-to-text feature is unreliable
  • The free version is full of annoying notifications

G2 Rating: 4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

VideoPad is an easy-to-learn video editing software full of helpful tools. A G2 reviewer states, “This complete and powerful media editing tool offers a variety of possibilities and possibilities to optimize every clip to the fullest.”

Takeaway

VideoPad Video Editor has many free features you can use to improve your videos. Admittedly, there are problems with some of these features. Nevertheless, this tool is a solid choice for a Windows iMovie alternative.

8. Lightworks

Lightworks Pro is a video editor used to make some Oscar-winning films, and Lightworks is a free and less complicated version of it. However, Lightworks is still not that beginner-friendly. Therefore, it’s best to consider this as an iMovie alternative only if you are an intermediate user.

lightworks interface

Key Features

  • Advanced Color Correction
  • Some advanced tools
  • Tooltips to help you learn how to use the features
  • Integration to Cloud services
  • Keyframing
  • Advanced audio controls
  • Autosave

Price

Lightworks is free, but premium subscriptions for Lightworks Create costs $99.9, and Lightworks Pro costs $24.99.

Pros

  • Includes Advanced tools
  • You would not lose progress because of the autosave feature
  • Good performance

Cons

  • Not suited for beginners
  • You can only export up to 720p using the free version

G2 Rating: 3.5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

A TrustRadius Ratings and Review says, “Lightworks is a great tool for a non-designer to use because it provides a number of tools and capabilities that can be quickly learned.” However, they note that Lightworks does not provide advanced video editors with all the tools they need. It’s best for intermediate users.

Takeaway

Lightworks is a fantastic alternative to iMovie for Windows 10+ users. However, it requires you to be quite knowledgeable about video editing tools. This editor has a slightly higher learning curve than others. But once you learn how to use Lightworks, creating quality videos would be super easy.

9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor

flexclip interface

FlexClip is a free online editor. It is a good substitute for iMovie for Windows users, regardless if you are a beginner or a professional.

Key Features

  • Dozens of useful tools like background remover and gif maker
  • Voice and screen recorder
  • Integration with social media platforms
  • It supports all the popular video formats
  • Allows you to export up to 1080p

Price

FlexClip is free, but premium subscriptions are available. Subscriptions start from $9.99 per month.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced editing tools
  • Easy to share your work on social media platforms
  • Allows creation of high-quality videos

Cons

  • Long loading time before you can use it

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

FlexClip being an online video editor means one thing; it does not use your PC’s processing power. It also delivers what it promises. A G2 reviewe r says, “I have used many video editing tools so far, but none is close to FlexClip when it comes to video editing.”

Takeaway

You can’t go wrong with FlexClip. It has powerful tools making it a great iMovie alternative for Windows. You don’t even have to install it; it’s an online tool. Unfortunately, that has some downsides. You need to wait for the website to finish loading before working because it scrolls down for each line that gets loaded.

10. WeVideo - Best for Templates

WeVideo includes social-media-friendly templates, making it a fantastic choice for editing popular video categories like How-to, Unboxings, and Makeup tutorials.

Key Features

  • Color Correction
  • Green Screen Editing Tool
  • Has support for square videos (for Instagram) and vertical videos (for TikTok)
  • Customizable templates plus dozens of pre-made ones

Price

Premium subscriptions start at $60 per year.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced video editing tools
  • Excellent customer support
  • User-friendly

Cons

  • The free version has lots of limitations
  • Importing videos to the website takes a long time

G2 Rating: 4.4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Social media influencers and marketers need to check out WeVideo. A reviewer of this video editing tool on G2 said, “It’s got a handful of Templates that you can use to explore your creativity and inventiveness when creating your content.”

Takeaway

WeVideo is a solid alternative for iMovie for Windows 10/11, but only if you are willing to pay. The free version has lots of restrictions. For example, you can only export 5 minutes of content per month.

11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

openshot interface

OpenShot has a straightforward interface, making it beginner-friendly. It has some fantastic tools you’ll find helpful. There’s a catch with beginner-friendly editors, though. They don’t have the advanced features you can find on other video editors. You can say that for OpenShot.

Key Features

  • 3D Animation
  • Text Editor
  • Keyframing
  • Decent selection of templates and filters

Price: Free

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Includes a wide range of editing tools
  • Lots of export options

Cons

  • Lack of advanced tools like Picture-in-Picture or Chroma Key
  • Very laggy to use sometimes

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

OpenShot is a great introductory software for video editing. Its simplicity, ergonomic design, and set of handy tools make it perfect for beginners. A G2 review states, “I do not have a degree in video editing, but the products from my Openshot edits were of high quality.”

Takeaway

Some tools are intimidating for beginners; there are many buttons, and you don’t know what each one does. That’s not a problem when using OpenShot. Its simple interface is easy to understand, making it the best tool for beginners.

How to Edit a Video with an iMovie Alternative on Windows

Knowing which are the best iMovie alternatives on Windows is not enough. Of course, you also need to learn how to use them. Here’s a guide on how to use Wondershare Filmora, the best overall iMovie alternative for Windows.

Step1 Launch Filmora. Then, if you want to, select the aspect ratio.

filmora interface

Step2 Click New Project, then wait for the video editor to load. Then, click Register to register the product.

Step3 Select the aspect ratio for the final cut. Click Project Settings from the File menu, then select your desired aspect ratio.

filmora project settings

Step4 Import the files you want to edit. Click the Import button in the upper left corner of the video editor. Select Import Media Files, then navigate to the location on your hard drive where the footage you want to edit is stored. Select the files you want to use in your project, then click Import.

importing files to filmora

Step5 Drag and drop the files to the timeline. Please note that the last one you add will always be placed after the previous one. Thus, you need to drag the file on the timeline to put it in the desired position. Press Play to preview.

adding files to filmora timeline

Step6 Apply visual effects, color correction, and other edits you want to make.

adding text to videos on filmora

Step7 Click Export to publish your video. Don’t forget to select your desired file format and resolution.

exporting videos from filmora

Here’s a video tutorial on how to use Wondershare Filmora

image / video 16:9

Final Words

It’s a shame that iMovie is not available on Windows 10/11 computers. Thankfully, there are alternatives you can use. Wondershare Filmora is an outstanding one. It allows you to do what you can do using iMovie and more.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Top 10 Vegas Pro Alternatives for Mac (Free & Paid)

For creating high-grade dynamic videos, simply shooting or recording a clip is not enough. Finding the best Sony Ve gas alternatives for Mac is essential since the software mainly targets Windows users.

Thanks to developers, there are many free and paid options to start your video editing journey on a Mac. Let’s first have a look at alternative software you could consider.

  1. Lightworks
  2. Wondershare Filmora
  3. Adobe Premiere Pro
  4. HitFilm Express
  5. Kdenlive
  6. OpenShot
  7. Blender
  8. Jahshaka
  9. Final Cut Pro
  10. Cyberlink PowerDirector 365

Part 1: Sony Vegas Pro Alternatives & Competitors Overview

Here is a list of the top 10 tools we found after research. For an easier understanding, the following are the essential points of difference between alternative video editing software types for Sony Vegas Pro in a tabular form.

Software Supported OS Price Editor’s Verdict
Lightworks Windows, Mac, Linux Create-$9.99/month, Pro-$23.99/month Medium-Difficult
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac Annual-$49.99, Perpetual-$79.99 Easy
Adobe Premiere Pro Windows, Mac $20.99/month Easy-Medium
HitFilm Express Windows, Mac Free Easy
Kdenlive Windows, Mac, Linux Free Medium-Difficult
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux, OsX Free Medium-Difficult
Blender Windows, Mac, Linux Free Easy
Jahshaka Windows, Linux, OsX Free Easy-Medium
Final Cut Pro Mac Lifetime-$299.99 Easy-Medium
Cyberlink PowerDirector 365 Windows, Mac Lifetime-$52.50 Easy-Medium

Part 2: Top 10 Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) Alternatives & Competitors

Now that you know the primary differences between the Sony Vegas Pro alternatives. Are you find anything you like? Let’s move on to more details for your further consideration.

1. Lightworks

With Lightworks, using the independent timeline codec, format, and resolution alteration in videos is extremely simple. In addition, you can use the multi-cam editing feature for real-time, high-quality editing work. Moreover, drag and drop elements into videos for optimized video editing work, including pre-existing Storyboard points.

lightworks interface

Main Features:

  • Industry-grade features like QC, transcoding, and automated transfer are available.
  • Edit files at different FPS limits and use three-point editing for recording/source files.
  • Insert files and overwrite on a new project, replace, backfill, and fit to fill your video clips.
  • Attach Storyboard tiles and match-frame clips/sub-clips easily.

Pros

  • Flexible functionality and speedy transfers
  • Edit files with professional movie-like quality
  • Auto Sync feature for automatic timeline re-syncing is available

Cons

  • Direct X is only available on the Windows version
  • TotalFX plugin is not available for free- you have to upgrade to use them

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

Best For: Editing experts creating visually animated and professional-looking short videos can work with Lightworks.

What users say:

For professional-level video editing work, Lightworks brings a lot of resources and elements to users. According to reviews , people who have tried it have experienced better video editing functionality with these resources.

2. Wondershare Filmora

The top Vegas Pro alternative that both Windows and Mac users can opt for is Filmora. The software has advanced AI-incorporated editing functions for automated editing work, including preset effects from FX plugins. Besides that, you can easily add pre-set transitions, audio clips, text, images, and more.

Beginners find it simple to navigate through its interface and can opt for the Instant Mode function for automatic video edits .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Download Filmora9 Mac Version

wondershare filmora interface

For a better idea of how this works, you should check out this tutorial video: https://filmora.wondershare.com/get-creative/make-a-video-quickly.html

Main Features:

  • Instant Mode is available for automatic video/audio project editing out of 6 shorter clips.
  • Support Advanced editing tools like Chroma Key and AI Portrait.
  • Record voiceover, apply speech-to-text/text-to-speech functions, and more audio editing features.
  • OpenFX plugins like BorisFX and NewBlue FX for a better list of pre-set effects.

Pros

  • Simple to use and navigate on the editor timeline, especially with drag-and-drop support
  • Output your editing files in different video/audio formats
  • Quickly share the file on Vimeo or YouTube, besides downloading it on the local hard drive

Cons

  • Free trial users cannot bring their Instant Mode-created videos into the editor timeline
  • 4K support only with selected MKV, MOV, M4V (for Mac), and MP4 codecs

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: All types of users like educators, students, homeowners, businesses, and video editors for comprehensive video editing tools and uses.

What users say:

Filmora is extremely simple to use, with advanced features available for top-level video editing work. Users mention in reviews how they have benefitted from the simple functionality and dynamic AI-based features available here for video editing.

3. Adobe Premiere Pro

If you are looking for high-quality programs like Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere Pro is a reliable choice. This editing software allows you to easily create, delete, and move big video projects. Moreover, you can work on multiple files simultaneously and use shortcuts for faster editing work.

Preset filters and editing features are also available here, especially if they choose the Adobe Creative Cloud option.

adobe premiere pro interface

Main Features:

  • Multiple pre-set transitions and effects are available for quick thematic changes.
  • Add graphics, titles, and captions.
  • Color grading and correction tools are available.
  • It is possible to add keyframing and animation elements.

Pros

  • Opting for group plans for video editing practice and learning using Adobe Premiere Pro is possible
  • Aligns audio with videos instantly during editing
  • Utilize Quick Export functionality for video files in some taps

Cons

  • Windows High Contrast Mode is supported but to a limited extent, like with menus and title bars
  • HDR workflows can only be handled on the Windows version with DisplayHDR 400 support

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional editors and trainers can use the various plans under Adobe Premiere Pro for video/audio editing.

What users say:

Advertisers and videographers enjoy high-grade video editing features and like the simple effects and interface quality. The motion graphics support in Adobe Premiere Pro is high-grade as well.

4. HitFilm Express

A capable Sony Vegas free alternative that you should check out is HitFilm Express. With this, you can expect many prepared designs for quick video edits. Additionally, you can manually customize the video files you are working on with high-grade personalization features available in the timeline.

hitfilm express interface

Main Features:

  • Pre-set customizable designs are available.
  • Built-in sound effects and soundtracks are usable for free.
  • Cache renders in timelines are optimized.
  • The New Grade Clips feature allows users to apply varying effects to many video clips.

Pros

  • Stable process of switching between timelines with an active orbit tool
  • Easy to switch between 2D/3D timelines while using the text tool
  • Simple to use for an unlimited period

Cons

  • Does not work on older versions than Windows 10 and macOS 10.14
  • Users cannot integrate this with Vegas Pro like before

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: This software is a high-quality video editor for custom video editing work, fit for beginners and professionals alike.

What users say:

HitFilm Express is easy to use and efficient in the market for professional-level editing. The tutorial is available here for quick learning about the steps, and expandable features are well-admired by users.

5. Kdenlive

A high-quality Sony Vegas open-source variety that you should seriously consider is Kdenlive. The video editor comes with MLT framework support and holds many tools for optimizing video editing.

To simplify, you can arrange and adjust various video/audio tracks and mute or lock specific ones as needed. Add everything from filters, texts, and transitions using this editor for high-grade video projects.

kdenlive interface

Main Features:

  • Get an automatic backup of your video project while you are editing it.
  • Use proxy editing to create low-resolution source clip copies and render them later on computers.
  • Multiple video/audio scopes are available for monitoring projects like vectorscope, waveform, and RDB Parade.
  • Many transition and effect choices to use.

Pros

  • Flexibility with themes to add with multiple options
  • Pre-render specific timeline parts for preview
  • Effects are simple to use with keyframing quality

Cons

  • Complex for completely non-technical users to adapt to
  • Only supports 64-bit versions in regards to Windows-based compatibility

Trustpilot Rating: 3.7 out of 5

Best For: High-level editing experts who need strong video editing and monitoring features in an open-source platform.

What users say:

Kdenlive, as an open-source video editing software, assures quick and straightforward usability with projects. Per reviews , users like the ability to make simple video edits without bugs in this editor and quickly export finished projects.

6. OpenShot

OpenShot is a high-quality cross-platform video editor that you can use on different devices for quick but dynamic video project edits. Use keyframing ability here to adjust the animated elements you add to the file.

Moreover, cut the videos with simple steps and add many audio tracks/background videos/watermarks in layers. Also, get several video effects to optimize the video look easily.

openshot interface

Main Features:

  • Adjust video speed in reverse motion, fast forward, and slow motion.
  • Render effects and 3D animated elements into the video project.
  • Get title templates and edit them as needed.
  • Visualize the background audio beats with waveform support.

Pros

  • Very user-friendly interface with a simple navigation guarantee
  • Supports more than 70 languages that you can translate as well using LaunchPad
  • Drag-and-drop functionality is supported for adding images, audio, and videos into the OpenShot editor timeline

Cons

  • Some bug issues can occur
  • Slightly complex learning curve

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional-level video editing experts can opt for this cross-platform free software for high-quality video creations.

What users say:

The OpenShot software is suitable for high-quality video editing across different devices and operating systems. Users like the lack of automated watermarks on all videos, its simple dashboard, and its multi-track editing ability, all available for free.

7. Blender

Blender is free video editing software like Sony Vegas that users can use for video editing, but it is also effective for game development with animations. Indeed, you can create and render dynamic-looking scenes with features like Cycles.

Furthermore, the software has a rich modelling toolset with solutions like curves and sculpting tools.

blender interface

Main Features:

  • Completely customization-friendly UI, shortcuts, and window layout here.
  • Customization and scripting are possible to do with this software due to the Python API support.
  • Supports access and integration of many pipeline tools for projects.
  • Comes with advanced simulation-based features available in MantaFlow and Bullet libraries.

Pros

  • Basic and advanced tools for quick video edits
  • Strong composition and masking ability with object-based motion tracking benefits
  • Easily create short animations with Blender

Cons

  • Data under the standalone games created here fall under GPL conditions
  • Strict licensing rules are applicable here

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Game developers and videographers for companies can use this open-source platform for creation and editing.

What users say:

Blender is a capable software for animation-based editing, with high-quality game-based features and interactive elements that make editing simple. As per reviews , users like the simple animation-based tools and fast rendering it offers.

8. Jahshaka

Users of Jahshaka can experience an inclusive, collaborative environment for metaverse-level editing work. This free editing software, like Sony Vegas, focuses mainly on VR-based editing functions and comes with powerful tools for project management and content creation.

Take the help of other team members to collaborate on dynamic virtual world building, editing, and publishing.

jahshaka interface

Main Features:

  • Compatible player for different desktop and mobile devices.
  • Create diversified worlds and scenes with one comprehensive platform.
  • Immersive software 3D video development.
  • Access to pre-built content and libraries of scenes and assets

Pros

  • Easily share and distribute your virtual projects
  • Deliver final projects offline and online
  • An interactive multi-user engine is available

Cons

  • Usable for a niche audience and does not include standard video editing tools
  • Jahshaka V2 legacy support is no longer active

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

SourceForge Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors who want a collaborative experience in VR-based development and publishing.

What users say:

Jahshaka is a suitable program for optimized VR-based editing with many preset features and themes to choose from. Most users enjoy the new features and worlds and can work with them efficiently.

9. Final Cut Pro

One of the top Sony Vegas alternatives Mac users can safely turn to is Final Cut Pro, which has powerful modern video editing features. With this software, you will access Cinematic Mode, which you can use to create stylish and thematic video scenes.

Similarly, the Object Tracker features utilize ML technology to automatically detect objects and faces in moving videos. It can align effects and titles accurately with the graphical elements in videos.

final cut pro interface

Main Features:

  • Object Tracker feature for using color correction and adding texts into moving videos.
  • Accelerated functional for motion tracking with Apple Neural Engine.
  • Add high-quality effects and titles into videos with Cinematic Mode support.
  • Preset audio tracks and royalty-free sound effects are available for editing.

Pros

  • Handle color grading for optimized scene quality
  • Adjust the field depth and focus depth in clips
  • Share projects across iOS and macOS platforms

Cons

  • Not valid for Windows users
  • Relatively high cost to avail the paid version with all advanced features

OS Compatibility: Mac

TrustRadius Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors, students, and filmmakers who want to create cinematic-quality video projects.

What users say:

Final Cut Pro is an efficient Mac-based video editing tool with easy sharing and editing capabilities, rich effects/transitions options, and fast rendering ability. Customers enjoy the intuitive non-linear editor, easy accessibility to social media platforms for file exporting, and live scrubbing, as noted in one review .

Another Sony Vegas mac alternative for Windows you should give a try is PowerDirector 365 from Cyberlink. This software removes or compiles video clips and uses masking features like image/custom masks.

Preset special effects, blending modes, and sound effects are available here for quick editing. Additionally, the AI-powered Motion Tracking traces objects in clips and adds graphics, animations, and text quickly in line with it.

cyberlink powerdirector 365 interface

Main Features:

  • You can create and remove videos with masking features.
  • Drag and drop the pre-set effects and texts into videos.
  • Adjust video clips with tools for border, gradation, and shadowing.
  • Multiple animations, callouts, graphics, and stickers to add to videos.

Pros

  • Use green screen functionality for quick background removal or editing
  • Automatic audio mastering and mixing functionality are available
  • Keyframing benefits for customized animations like scaling and positioning

Cons

  • Dolby Digital-centric audio codec is not available for users
  • Users can try features like Room Echo Removal and NVIDIA A/V Denoise only on Windows 11

OS Compatibility: Windows

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional videographers and regular users who want a Windows-based video editing software for standard video clip editing.

What users say:

Cyberlink PowerDirector is a powerful video editor with standard editing functions many users have tried and benefited from. According to customers , the program has high-quality video and audio editing benefits for presentations, with additional effects/splitting/cropping features.

Part 3: What are the limitations when using Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) on Mac?

Yes, with the given Sony Vegas alternatives, Mac and Windows users can benefit heavily. But why is it important to try for a replacement when Sony Vegas Pro is relatively efficient software?

To know the answer, you should take the time to understand its limitations, which do exist.

It only works for Windows users

The Sony Vegas Pro software is not available for Mac or other operating systems besides Windows. In addition, it’ll be really complex and time-consuming, even if you opt for virtual machine software or handle dual booting techniques to configure the software on your Mac or Linux.

You need to invest in other hardware

Sony Vegas Pro does do not work within one comprehensive platform like other capable video editing software types, like Wondershare Filmora . You have to acquire a powerful PC and tools to operate it separately. The software works very slowly on older devices.

Not incredibly unique

The functions of Sony Vegas Pro match somewhat with other options in the market. So, users would not expect much value in purchasing this software’s plans that they want to upgrade from their previous system, but on the other hand, the available features are mostly standard-level in functionality as well.

Hot FAQs about Vegas Pro Alternatives

After knowing these details, many users still have specific common queries about opting for a Sony Vegas Pro alternatively. So these are some common FAQs about this- answered.

1. Can Sony Vegas be used on a Mac?

No, it is impossible to directly use Sony Vegas on macOS devices since it does not support it. Instead, you have to separately use a dual boot strategy or virtual machine software to activate the video editor on Mac devices, but the process for that is complex.

2. Is Wondershare Filmora or Vegas Pro better?

Wondershare Filmora and Vegas Pro are top-level options in video and audio editing projects with professional-level editing accuracy. However, Filmora has a cohesive ecosystem with rich AI and standard functions and comes with Mac/Windows support. So, in that sense, Filmora is comparatively a better choice.

Final Words

In place of Sony Vegas Pro, any of these options would also give you a great user experience. Out of them, Filmora is one that we will recommend due to its multi-faceted benefits and features for Mac and Windows users. Ultimately, make your decision based on your particular needs.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Part 1: Sony Vegas Pro Alternatives & Competitors Overview

Here is a list of the top 10 tools we found after research. For an easier understanding, the following are the essential points of difference between alternative video editing software types for Sony Vegas Pro in a tabular form.

Software Supported OS Price Editor’s Verdict
Lightworks Windows, Mac, Linux Create-$9.99/month, Pro-$23.99/month Medium-Difficult
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac Annual-$49.99, Perpetual-$79.99 Easy
Adobe Premiere Pro Windows, Mac $20.99/month Easy-Medium
HitFilm Express Windows, Mac Free Easy
Kdenlive Windows, Mac, Linux Free Medium-Difficult
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux, OsX Free Medium-Difficult
Blender Windows, Mac, Linux Free Easy
Jahshaka Windows, Linux, OsX Free Easy-Medium
Final Cut Pro Mac Lifetime-$299.99 Easy-Medium
Cyberlink PowerDirector 365 Windows, Mac Lifetime-$52.50 Easy-Medium

Part 2: Top 10 Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) Alternatives & Competitors

Now that you know the primary differences between the Sony Vegas Pro alternatives. Are you find anything you like? Let’s move on to more details for your further consideration.

1. Lightworks

With Lightworks, using the independent timeline codec, format, and resolution alteration in videos is extremely simple. In addition, you can use the multi-cam editing feature for real-time, high-quality editing work. Moreover, drag and drop elements into videos for optimized video editing work, including pre-existing Storyboard points.

lightworks interface

Main Features:

  • Industry-grade features like QC, transcoding, and automated transfer are available.
  • Edit files at different FPS limits and use three-point editing for recording/source files.
  • Insert files and overwrite on a new project, replace, backfill, and fit to fill your video clips.
  • Attach Storyboard tiles and match-frame clips/sub-clips easily.

Pros

  • Flexible functionality and speedy transfers
  • Edit files with professional movie-like quality
  • Auto Sync feature for automatic timeline re-syncing is available

Cons

  • Direct X is only available on the Windows version
  • TotalFX plugin is not available for free- you have to upgrade to use them

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

Best For: Editing experts creating visually animated and professional-looking short videos can work with Lightworks.

What users say:

For professional-level video editing work, Lightworks brings a lot of resources and elements to users. According to reviews , people who have tried it have experienced better video editing functionality with these resources.

2. Wondershare Filmora

The top Vegas Pro alternative that both Windows and Mac users can opt for is Filmora. The software has advanced AI-incorporated editing functions for automated editing work, including preset effects from FX plugins. Besides that, you can easily add pre-set transitions, audio clips, text, images, and more.

Beginners find it simple to navigate through its interface and can opt for the Instant Mode function for automatic video edits .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Download Filmora9 Mac Version

wondershare filmora interface

For a better idea of how this works, you should check out this tutorial video: https://filmora.wondershare.com/get-creative/make-a-video-quickly.html

Main Features:

  • Instant Mode is available for automatic video/audio project editing out of 6 shorter clips.
  • Support Advanced editing tools like Chroma Key and AI Portrait.
  • Record voiceover, apply speech-to-text/text-to-speech functions, and more audio editing features.
  • OpenFX plugins like BorisFX and NewBlue FX for a better list of pre-set effects.

Pros

  • Simple to use and navigate on the editor timeline, especially with drag-and-drop support
  • Output your editing files in different video/audio formats
  • Quickly share the file on Vimeo or YouTube, besides downloading it on the local hard drive

Cons

  • Free trial users cannot bring their Instant Mode-created videos into the editor timeline
  • 4K support only with selected MKV, MOV, M4V (for Mac), and MP4 codecs

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: All types of users like educators, students, homeowners, businesses, and video editors for comprehensive video editing tools and uses.

What users say:

Filmora is extremely simple to use, with advanced features available for top-level video editing work. Users mention in reviews how they have benefitted from the simple functionality and dynamic AI-based features available here for video editing.

3. Adobe Premiere Pro

If you are looking for high-quality programs like Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere Pro is a reliable choice. This editing software allows you to easily create, delete, and move big video projects. Moreover, you can work on multiple files simultaneously and use shortcuts for faster editing work.

Preset filters and editing features are also available here, especially if they choose the Adobe Creative Cloud option.

adobe premiere pro interface

Main Features:

  • Multiple pre-set transitions and effects are available for quick thematic changes.
  • Add graphics, titles, and captions.
  • Color grading and correction tools are available.
  • It is possible to add keyframing and animation elements.

Pros

  • Opting for group plans for video editing practice and learning using Adobe Premiere Pro is possible
  • Aligns audio with videos instantly during editing
  • Utilize Quick Export functionality for video files in some taps

Cons

  • Windows High Contrast Mode is supported but to a limited extent, like with menus and title bars
  • HDR workflows can only be handled on the Windows version with DisplayHDR 400 support

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional editors and trainers can use the various plans under Adobe Premiere Pro for video/audio editing.

What users say:

Advertisers and videographers enjoy high-grade video editing features and like the simple effects and interface quality. The motion graphics support in Adobe Premiere Pro is high-grade as well.

4. HitFilm Express

A capable Sony Vegas free alternative that you should check out is HitFilm Express. With this, you can expect many prepared designs for quick video edits. Additionally, you can manually customize the video files you are working on with high-grade personalization features available in the timeline.

hitfilm express interface

Main Features:

  • Pre-set customizable designs are available.
  • Built-in sound effects and soundtracks are usable for free.
  • Cache renders in timelines are optimized.
  • The New Grade Clips feature allows users to apply varying effects to many video clips.

Pros

  • Stable process of switching between timelines with an active orbit tool
  • Easy to switch between 2D/3D timelines while using the text tool
  • Simple to use for an unlimited period

Cons

  • Does not work on older versions than Windows 10 and macOS 10.14
  • Users cannot integrate this with Vegas Pro like before

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: This software is a high-quality video editor for custom video editing work, fit for beginners and professionals alike.

What users say:

HitFilm Express is easy to use and efficient in the market for professional-level editing. The tutorial is available here for quick learning about the steps, and expandable features are well-admired by users.

5. Kdenlive

A high-quality Sony Vegas open-source variety that you should seriously consider is Kdenlive. The video editor comes with MLT framework support and holds many tools for optimizing video editing.

To simplify, you can arrange and adjust various video/audio tracks and mute or lock specific ones as needed. Add everything from filters, texts, and transitions using this editor for high-grade video projects.

kdenlive interface

Main Features:

  • Get an automatic backup of your video project while you are editing it.
  • Use proxy editing to create low-resolution source clip copies and render them later on computers.
  • Multiple video/audio scopes are available for monitoring projects like vectorscope, waveform, and RDB Parade.
  • Many transition and effect choices to use.

Pros

  • Flexibility with themes to add with multiple options
  • Pre-render specific timeline parts for preview
  • Effects are simple to use with keyframing quality

Cons

  • Complex for completely non-technical users to adapt to
  • Only supports 64-bit versions in regards to Windows-based compatibility

Trustpilot Rating: 3.7 out of 5

Best For: High-level editing experts who need strong video editing and monitoring features in an open-source platform.

What users say:

Kdenlive, as an open-source video editing software, assures quick and straightforward usability with projects. Per reviews , users like the ability to make simple video edits without bugs in this editor and quickly export finished projects.

6. OpenShot

OpenShot is a high-quality cross-platform video editor that you can use on different devices for quick but dynamic video project edits. Use keyframing ability here to adjust the animated elements you add to the file.

Moreover, cut the videos with simple steps and add many audio tracks/background videos/watermarks in layers. Also, get several video effects to optimize the video look easily.

openshot interface

Main Features:

  • Adjust video speed in reverse motion, fast forward, and slow motion.
  • Render effects and 3D animated elements into the video project.
  • Get title templates and edit them as needed.
  • Visualize the background audio beats with waveform support.

Pros

  • Very user-friendly interface with a simple navigation guarantee
  • Supports more than 70 languages that you can translate as well using LaunchPad
  • Drag-and-drop functionality is supported for adding images, audio, and videos into the OpenShot editor timeline

Cons

  • Some bug issues can occur
  • Slightly complex learning curve

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional-level video editing experts can opt for this cross-platform free software for high-quality video creations.

What users say:

The OpenShot software is suitable for high-quality video editing across different devices and operating systems. Users like the lack of automated watermarks on all videos, its simple dashboard, and its multi-track editing ability, all available for free.

7. Blender

Blender is free video editing software like Sony Vegas that users can use for video editing, but it is also effective for game development with animations. Indeed, you can create and render dynamic-looking scenes with features like Cycles.

Furthermore, the software has a rich modelling toolset with solutions like curves and sculpting tools.

blender interface

Main Features:

  • Completely customization-friendly UI, shortcuts, and window layout here.
  • Customization and scripting are possible to do with this software due to the Python API support.
  • Supports access and integration of many pipeline tools for projects.
  • Comes with advanced simulation-based features available in MantaFlow and Bullet libraries.

Pros

  • Basic and advanced tools for quick video edits
  • Strong composition and masking ability with object-based motion tracking benefits
  • Easily create short animations with Blender

Cons

  • Data under the standalone games created here fall under GPL conditions
  • Strict licensing rules are applicable here

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Game developers and videographers for companies can use this open-source platform for creation and editing.

What users say:

Blender is a capable software for animation-based editing, with high-quality game-based features and interactive elements that make editing simple. As per reviews , users like the simple animation-based tools and fast rendering it offers.

8. Jahshaka

Users of Jahshaka can experience an inclusive, collaborative environment for metaverse-level editing work. This free editing software, like Sony Vegas, focuses mainly on VR-based editing functions and comes with powerful tools for project management and content creation.

Take the help of other team members to collaborate on dynamic virtual world building, editing, and publishing.

jahshaka interface

Main Features:

  • Compatible player for different desktop and mobile devices.
  • Create diversified worlds and scenes with one comprehensive platform.
  • Immersive software 3D video development.
  • Access to pre-built content and libraries of scenes and assets

Pros

  • Easily share and distribute your virtual projects
  • Deliver final projects offline and online
  • An interactive multi-user engine is available

Cons

  • Usable for a niche audience and does not include standard video editing tools
  • Jahshaka V2 legacy support is no longer active

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

SourceForge Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors who want a collaborative experience in VR-based development and publishing.

What users say:

Jahshaka is a suitable program for optimized VR-based editing with many preset features and themes to choose from. Most users enjoy the new features and worlds and can work with them efficiently.

9. Final Cut Pro

One of the top Sony Vegas alternatives Mac users can safely turn to is Final Cut Pro, which has powerful modern video editing features. With this software, you will access Cinematic Mode, which you can use to create stylish and thematic video scenes.

Similarly, the Object Tracker features utilize ML technology to automatically detect objects and faces in moving videos. It can align effects and titles accurately with the graphical elements in videos.

final cut pro interface

Main Features:

  • Object Tracker feature for using color correction and adding texts into moving videos.
  • Accelerated functional for motion tracking with Apple Neural Engine.
  • Add high-quality effects and titles into videos with Cinematic Mode support.
  • Preset audio tracks and royalty-free sound effects are available for editing.

Pros

  • Handle color grading for optimized scene quality
  • Adjust the field depth and focus depth in clips
  • Share projects across iOS and macOS platforms

Cons

  • Not valid for Windows users
  • Relatively high cost to avail the paid version with all advanced features

OS Compatibility: Mac

TrustRadius Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors, students, and filmmakers who want to create cinematic-quality video projects.

What users say:

Final Cut Pro is an efficient Mac-based video editing tool with easy sharing and editing capabilities, rich effects/transitions options, and fast rendering ability. Customers enjoy the intuitive non-linear editor, easy accessibility to social media platforms for file exporting, and live scrubbing, as noted in one review .

Another Sony Vegas mac alternative for Windows you should give a try is PowerDirector 365 from Cyberlink. This software removes or compiles video clips and uses masking features like image/custom masks.

Preset special effects, blending modes, and sound effects are available here for quick editing. Additionally, the AI-powered Motion Tracking traces objects in clips and adds graphics, animations, and text quickly in line with it.

cyberlink powerdirector 365 interface

Main Features:

  • You can create and remove videos with masking features.
  • Drag and drop the pre-set effects and texts into videos.
  • Adjust video clips with tools for border, gradation, and shadowing.
  • Multiple animations, callouts, graphics, and stickers to add to videos.

Pros

  • Use green screen functionality for quick background removal or editing
  • Automatic audio mastering and mixing functionality are available
  • Keyframing benefits for customized animations like scaling and positioning

Cons

  • Dolby Digital-centric audio codec is not available for users
  • Users can try features like Room Echo Removal and NVIDIA A/V Denoise only on Windows 11

OS Compatibility: Windows

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional videographers and regular users who want a Windows-based video editing software for standard video clip editing.

What users say:

Cyberlink PowerDirector is a powerful video editor with standard editing functions many users have tried and benefited from. According to customers , the program has high-quality video and audio editing benefits for presentations, with additional effects/splitting/cropping features.

Part 3: What are the limitations when using Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) on Mac?

Yes, with the given Sony Vegas alternatives, Mac and Windows users can benefit heavily. But why is it important to try for a replacement when Sony Vegas Pro is relatively efficient software?

To know the answer, you should take the time to understand its limitations, which do exist.

It only works for Windows users

The Sony Vegas Pro software is not available for Mac or other operating systems besides Windows. In addition, it’ll be really complex and time-consuming, even if you opt for virtual machine software or handle dual booting techniques to configure the software on your Mac or Linux.

You need to invest in other hardware

Sony Vegas Pro does do not work within one comprehensive platform like other capable video editing software types, like Wondershare Filmora . You have to acquire a powerful PC and tools to operate it separately. The software works very slowly on older devices.

Not incredibly unique

The functions of Sony Vegas Pro match somewhat with other options in the market. So, users would not expect much value in purchasing this software’s plans that they want to upgrade from their previous system, but on the other hand, the available features are mostly standard-level in functionality as well.

Hot FAQs about Vegas Pro Alternatives

After knowing these details, many users still have specific common queries about opting for a Sony Vegas Pro alternatively. So these are some common FAQs about this- answered.

1. Can Sony Vegas be used on a Mac?

No, it is impossible to directly use Sony Vegas on macOS devices since it does not support it. Instead, you have to separately use a dual boot strategy or virtual machine software to activate the video editor on Mac devices, but the process for that is complex.

2. Is Wondershare Filmora or Vegas Pro better?

Wondershare Filmora and Vegas Pro are top-level options in video and audio editing projects with professional-level editing accuracy. However, Filmora has a cohesive ecosystem with rich AI and standard functions and comes with Mac/Windows support. So, in that sense, Filmora is comparatively a better choice.

Final Words

In place of Sony Vegas Pro, any of these options would also give you a great user experience. Out of them, Filmora is one that we will recommend due to its multi-faceted benefits and features for Mac and Windows users. Ultimately, make your decision based on your particular needs.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

New Year, New Animations: The 10 Best 2D Animation Software

10 Best 2D Animation Software in 2024 [Free/Paid]

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

How to Get Filmora for Free without Crack

author avatar

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Wondershare Filmora is a great tool for video creators. This dedicated software offers its users numerous different features that are aimed at making your video content better. It is widely loved by users for its prestigious and easy-to-use features.

However, much to many people’s dismay, Filmora is not free. But would you like to acquire the Filmora free version on your device? Would you like to download the Wondershare Filmora video editor for free and edit videos or photos without paying $49.99 annually? If so, here are some solutions to getting Filmora video editors completely free without violating the law.

Part 1: Getting Filmora for Free via Taking the Mission to Export 3 Videos

Another method is for users who have already installed Filmora on their devices. If you are using Filmora, you do not need to crack it in order to get Filmora free. You can earn the Filmora license by doing the mission of exporting three videos in total from the software. The method is quite simple and easy, but the mission is only available for Filmora 10.2 and above versions for a limited time. And the mission may be taken down sometime.

In order to do so, you have to follow the steps mentioned below.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

  • To begin with, you need to download and install Filmora, and then launch Filmora and then click New Project to create a new project. Then you will see a pop-up window as shown below:

 Filmora mission

Wondershare Filmora provides a 7-day license for users without Filmora subscription, and a perpetual effects pack for users already subscribed to it. Click the Take the Mission button to continue, and you will see the progress under the right corner.

 complete Filmora mission

Now, it’s time to import, edit and export video footage with Filmora. There are several ways to import media to Filmora, and the direct way is drag and drop the photo and video into the Project media library, and then place them in order in the timeline.

 import  import your media files to Filmora

  • If you need to cut out some clips from the footage, you can trim, split, or crop it easily. Right-click the footage in the timeline, and you will find the most commonly used editing tools.
  • You can follow the software layout to add audio, titles, transitions, effects, elements accordingly. If you wish to add sound to your video , go to “Audio” tab, find the proper music track or sound effect for your footage, and then drag it to the soundtrack in the timeline.

 add sound effects

  • The titles tab provides hundreds of titles and texts templates, including openers, titles, Lower 3rds, subtitles, and end credits. You can also use the Plain text template without animations and add some callouts.
  • In the next step, add overlays or transitions in your video , and if you have finished the editing, press Ctrl+S to save the project.

 add transitions

  • Finally, click on the “Export” button and select the “Local” tab. Choose a name and file format for your video and tap “Export.”

save your video

Once you are done with compiling one video, follow the same steps as mentioned above twice more so that you have exported three videos in total from Filmora. You can see your progress in the gift box in the right corner. Click Claim Your Rewards and you will a pop-up window as shown below.

 claim your Filmora license

Now, click the Claim your Free 7-day License button, by doing so, you will get the Filmora License, i.e., your Filmora version is now full and free.

Once you have acquired the Filmora free license, you can go back and import the previous projects, edit again and remove the watermark.

Launch Filmora again, and then find the project you just made in the Start window and open it. Or you can click New Project to enter the main interface, click File - Open Recent, find the project. Log in with your Wondershare ID and click on the “Export” button. Your video will now be exported without a watermark.

This method is quite easy to get the Filmora free version. But as it said before, it is a 7-day limited license, how about if you want it to be longer? No worries, read on and you will find out how.

Part 2: Most Easy and Creative Features in Filmora (You Should Definitely Try)

Now you have the Filmora free version on your device. That means that you have now successfully gained access to multiple features of Wondershare Filmora for free. Filmora offers its users several unique and creative features that can be used to make your videos top-notch. Mastering these tools requires lots of practice, but the end result is definitely worth it all.

There are various tools offered by Filmora that can help elevate the rank of your videos to make them top-tier, but they are often overlooked. Users generally do not have an idea of how to make the most out of their tool. Here, we have mentioned some of the fun and easy-to-use features offered by Filmora that you should definitely try as an aspiring content creator.

1. Filmora Green Screen

The Green Screen effect by Filmora is an advanced feature of the Overlays option. It enables users to combine two overlaid clips in such a way that the background of the lower layer can be visible on the top layer. It uses a color range in the top clip to make it shine through. You can get this effect by using a green background while shooting videos.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

The Green Screen effect can be used to place subjects over a number of different backgrounds. You can make a green screen on Filmora by simply clicking on the chroma key. It also offers spill removal, color correction, filters, and transition effects to use on your green screen.

2. Filmora Split Screen

The Split Screen feature in Wondershare Filmora allows you to display multiple clips on the screen at the same time. This feature comes in handy when you want to compare different angled shots or add two or more clips to your video. The effect helps users to add a specific style and class into your video.

Filmora currently offers around 30 split screen templates. You can add up to 6 different video clips in these presets at the same time. The default duration of the split screen is 5 seconds, but you can adjust it according to your requirements. You can add all kinds of borders, do a color correction, tuning and apply motion effects on your split-screen.

3. Filmora Beat Detection

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor offers a Beat Detection option for users, which marks audio beats from the inserted sound clip in your video automatically. The tool makes it easy to match your edits with the music, allowing a smooth clip. Analyzing and detecting the beats is entirely automatic. Using Filmora, syncing your video to the music is now relatively easy and quick. Even the customization of beat markers doesn’t take long. It is an excellent tool for filming, even for people who are first-timers. You can change the highlight beat frequency, offset or add transitions in your beats. This will allow your videos to appear more in-sync and vivid.

Conclusion

You can now go on and spread the news. Wondershare Filmora can now be downloaded and used for free without paying any extra money. Using the methods mentioned above, you can get Filmora free download on your device without any crack or spending a dollar. Also, try the wonderful features of Filmora to get the most out of your videos and photos.

author avatar

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Wondershare Filmora is a great tool for video creators. This dedicated software offers its users numerous different features that are aimed at making your video content better. It is widely loved by users for its prestigious and easy-to-use features.

However, much to many people’s dismay, Filmora is not free. But would you like to acquire the Filmora free version on your device? Would you like to download the Wondershare Filmora video editor for free and edit videos or photos without paying $49.99 annually? If so, here are some solutions to getting Filmora video editors completely free without violating the law.

Part 1: Getting Filmora for Free via Taking the Mission to Export 3 Videos

Another method is for users who have already installed Filmora on their devices. If you are using Filmora, you do not need to crack it in order to get Filmora free. You can earn the Filmora license by doing the mission of exporting three videos in total from the software. The method is quite simple and easy, but the mission is only available for Filmora 10.2 and above versions for a limited time. And the mission may be taken down sometime.

In order to do so, you have to follow the steps mentioned below.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

  • To begin with, you need to download and install Filmora, and then launch Filmora and then click New Project to create a new project. Then you will see a pop-up window as shown below:

 Filmora mission

Wondershare Filmora provides a 7-day license for users without Filmora subscription, and a perpetual effects pack for users already subscribed to it. Click the Take the Mission button to continue, and you will see the progress under the right corner.

 complete Filmora mission

Now, it’s time to import, edit and export video footage with Filmora. There are several ways to import media to Filmora, and the direct way is drag and drop the photo and video into the Project media library, and then place them in order in the timeline.

 import  import your media files to Filmora

  • If you need to cut out some clips from the footage, you can trim, split, or crop it easily. Right-click the footage in the timeline, and you will find the most commonly used editing tools.
  • You can follow the software layout to add audio, titles, transitions, effects, elements accordingly. If you wish to add sound to your video , go to “Audio” tab, find the proper music track or sound effect for your footage, and then drag it to the soundtrack in the timeline.

 add sound effects

  • The titles tab provides hundreds of titles and texts templates, including openers, titles, Lower 3rds, subtitles, and end credits. You can also use the Plain text template without animations and add some callouts.
  • In the next step, add overlays or transitions in your video , and if you have finished the editing, press Ctrl+S to save the project.

 add transitions

  • Finally, click on the “Export” button and select the “Local” tab. Choose a name and file format for your video and tap “Export.”

save your video

Once you are done with compiling one video, follow the same steps as mentioned above twice more so that you have exported three videos in total from Filmora. You can see your progress in the gift box in the right corner. Click Claim Your Rewards and you will a pop-up window as shown below.

 claim your Filmora license

Now, click the Claim your Free 7-day License button, by doing so, you will get the Filmora License, i.e., your Filmora version is now full and free.

Once you have acquired the Filmora free license, you can go back and import the previous projects, edit again and remove the watermark.

Launch Filmora again, and then find the project you just made in the Start window and open it. Or you can click New Project to enter the main interface, click File - Open Recent, find the project. Log in with your Wondershare ID and click on the “Export” button. Your video will now be exported without a watermark.

This method is quite easy to get the Filmora free version. But as it said before, it is a 7-day limited license, how about if you want it to be longer? No worries, read on and you will find out how.

Part 2: Most Easy and Creative Features in Filmora (You Should Definitely Try)

Now you have the Filmora free version on your device. That means that you have now successfully gained access to multiple features of Wondershare Filmora for free. Filmora offers its users several unique and creative features that can be used to make your videos top-notch. Mastering these tools requires lots of practice, but the end result is definitely worth it all.

There are various tools offered by Filmora that can help elevate the rank of your videos to make them top-tier, but they are often overlooked. Users generally do not have an idea of how to make the most out of their tool. Here, we have mentioned some of the fun and easy-to-use features offered by Filmora that you should definitely try as an aspiring content creator.

1. Filmora Green Screen

The Green Screen effect by Filmora is an advanced feature of the Overlays option. It enables users to combine two overlaid clips in such a way that the background of the lower layer can be visible on the top layer. It uses a color range in the top clip to make it shine through. You can get this effect by using a green background while shooting videos.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

The Green Screen effect can be used to place subjects over a number of different backgrounds. You can make a green screen on Filmora by simply clicking on the chroma key. It also offers spill removal, color correction, filters, and transition effects to use on your green screen.

2. Filmora Split Screen

The Split Screen feature in Wondershare Filmora allows you to display multiple clips on the screen at the same time. This feature comes in handy when you want to compare different angled shots or add two or more clips to your video. The effect helps users to add a specific style and class into your video.

Filmora currently offers around 30 split screen templates. You can add up to 6 different video clips in these presets at the same time. The default duration of the split screen is 5 seconds, but you can adjust it according to your requirements. You can add all kinds of borders, do a color correction, tuning and apply motion effects on your split-screen.

3. Filmora Beat Detection

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor offers a Beat Detection option for users, which marks audio beats from the inserted sound clip in your video automatically. The tool makes it easy to match your edits with the music, allowing a smooth clip. Analyzing and detecting the beats is entirely automatic. Using Filmora, syncing your video to the music is now relatively easy and quick. Even the customization of beat markers doesn’t take long. It is an excellent tool for filming, even for people who are first-timers. You can change the highlight beat frequency, offset or add transitions in your beats. This will allow your videos to appear more in-sync and vivid.

Conclusion

You can now go on and spread the news. Wondershare Filmora can now be downloaded and used for free without paying any extra money. Using the methods mentioned above, you can get Filmora free download on your device without any crack or spending a dollar. Also, try the wonderful features of Filmora to get the most out of your videos and photos.

author avatar

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Wondershare Filmora is a great tool for video creators. This dedicated software offers its users numerous different features that are aimed at making your video content better. It is widely loved by users for its prestigious and easy-to-use features.

However, much to many people’s dismay, Filmora is not free. But would you like to acquire the Filmora free version on your device? Would you like to download the Wondershare Filmora video editor for free and edit videos or photos without paying $49.99 annually? If so, here are some solutions to getting Filmora video editors completely free without violating the law.

Part 1: Getting Filmora for Free via Taking the Mission to Export 3 Videos

Another method is for users who have already installed Filmora on their devices. If you are using Filmora, you do not need to crack it in order to get Filmora free. You can earn the Filmora license by doing the mission of exporting three videos in total from the software. The method is quite simple and easy, but the mission is only available for Filmora 10.2 and above versions for a limited time. And the mission may be taken down sometime.

In order to do so, you have to follow the steps mentioned below.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

  • To begin with, you need to download and install Filmora, and then launch Filmora and then click New Project to create a new project. Then you will see a pop-up window as shown below:

 Filmora mission

Wondershare Filmora provides a 7-day license for users without Filmora subscription, and a perpetual effects pack for users already subscribed to it. Click the Take the Mission button to continue, and you will see the progress under the right corner.

 complete Filmora mission

Now, it’s time to import, edit and export video footage with Filmora. There are several ways to import media to Filmora, and the direct way is drag and drop the photo and video into the Project media library, and then place them in order in the timeline.

 import  import your media files to Filmora

  • If you need to cut out some clips from the footage, you can trim, split, or crop it easily. Right-click the footage in the timeline, and you will find the most commonly used editing tools.
  • You can follow the software layout to add audio, titles, transitions, effects, elements accordingly. If you wish to add sound to your video , go to “Audio” tab, find the proper music track or sound effect for your footage, and then drag it to the soundtrack in the timeline.

 add sound effects

  • The titles tab provides hundreds of titles and texts templates, including openers, titles, Lower 3rds, subtitles, and end credits. You can also use the Plain text template without animations and add some callouts.
  • In the next step, add overlays or transitions in your video , and if you have finished the editing, press Ctrl+S to save the project.

 add transitions

  • Finally, click on the “Export” button and select the “Local” tab. Choose a name and file format for your video and tap “Export.”

save your video

Once you are done with compiling one video, follow the same steps as mentioned above twice more so that you have exported three videos in total from Filmora. You can see your progress in the gift box in the right corner. Click Claim Your Rewards and you will a pop-up window as shown below.

 claim your Filmora license

Now, click the Claim your Free 7-day License button, by doing so, you will get the Filmora License, i.e., your Filmora version is now full and free.

Once you have acquired the Filmora free license, you can go back and import the previous projects, edit again and remove the watermark.

Launch Filmora again, and then find the project you just made in the Start window and open it. Or you can click New Project to enter the main interface, click File - Open Recent, find the project. Log in with your Wondershare ID and click on the “Export” button. Your video will now be exported without a watermark.

This method is quite easy to get the Filmora free version. But as it said before, it is a 7-day limited license, how about if you want it to be longer? No worries, read on and you will find out how.

Part 2: Most Easy and Creative Features in Filmora (You Should Definitely Try)

Now you have the Filmora free version on your device. That means that you have now successfully gained access to multiple features of Wondershare Filmora for free. Filmora offers its users several unique and creative features that can be used to make your videos top-notch. Mastering these tools requires lots of practice, but the end result is definitely worth it all.

There are various tools offered by Filmora that can help elevate the rank of your videos to make them top-tier, but they are often overlooked. Users generally do not have an idea of how to make the most out of their tool. Here, we have mentioned some of the fun and easy-to-use features offered by Filmora that you should definitely try as an aspiring content creator.

1. Filmora Green Screen

The Green Screen effect by Filmora is an advanced feature of the Overlays option. It enables users to combine two overlaid clips in such a way that the background of the lower layer can be visible on the top layer. It uses a color range in the top clip to make it shine through. You can get this effect by using a green background while shooting videos.

Download Filmora X Win Version Download Filmora X Mac Version

The Green Screen effect can be used to place subjects over a number of different backgrounds. You can make a green screen on Filmora by simply clicking on the chroma key. It also offers spill removal, color correction, filters, and transition effects to use on your green screen.

2. Filmora Split Screen

The Split Screen feature in Wondershare Filmora allows you to display multiple clips on the screen at the same time. This feature comes in handy when you want to compare different angled shots or add two or more clips to your video. The effect helps users to add a specific style and class into your video.

Filmora currently offers around 30 split screen templates. You can add up to 6 different video clips in these presets at the same time. The default duration of the split screen is 5 seconds, but you can adjust it according to your requirements. You can add all kinds of borders, do a color correction, tuning and apply motion effects on your split-screen.

3. Filmora Beat Detection

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor offers a Beat Detection option for users, which marks audio beats from the inserted sound clip in your video automatically. The tool makes it easy to match your edits with the music, allowing a smooth clip. Analyzing and detecting the beats is entirely automatic. Using Filmora, syncing your video to the music is now relatively easy and quick. Even the customization of beat markers doesn’t take long. It is an excellent tool for filming, even for people who are first-timers. You can change the highlight beat frequency, offset or add transitions in your beats. This will allow your videos to appear more in-sync and vivid.

Conclusion

You can now go on and spread the news. Wondershare Filmora can now be downloaded and used for free without paying any extra money. Using the methods mentioned above, you can get Filmora free download on your device without any crack or spending a dollar. Also, try the wonderful features of Filmora to get the most out of your videos and photos.

author avatar

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Wondershare Filmora is a great tool for video creators. This dedicated software offers its users numerous different features that are aimed at making your video content better. It is widely loved by users for its prestigious and easy-to-use features.

However, much to many people’s dismay, Filmora is not free. But would you like to acquire the Filmora free version on your device? Would you like to download the Wondershare Filmora video editor for free and edit videos or photos without paying $49.99 annually? If so, here are some solutions to getting Filmora video editors completely free without violating the law.

Part 1: Getting Filmora for Free via Taking the Mission to Export 3 Videos

Another method is for users who have already installed Filmora on their devices. If you are using Filmora, you do not need to crack it in order to get Filmora free. You can earn the Filmora license by doing the mission of exporting three videos in total from the software. The method is quite simple and easy, but the mission is only available for Filmora 10.2 and above versions for a limited time. And the mission may be taken down sometime.

In order to do so, you have to follow the steps mentioned below.

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  • To begin with, you need to download and install Filmora, and then launch Filmora and then click New Project to create a new project. Then you will see a pop-up window as shown below:

 Filmora mission

Wondershare Filmora provides a 7-day license for users without Filmora subscription, and a perpetual effects pack for users already subscribed to it. Click the Take the Mission button to continue, and you will see the progress under the right corner.

 complete Filmora mission

Now, it’s time to import, edit and export video footage with Filmora. There are several ways to import media to Filmora, and the direct way is drag and drop the photo and video into the Project media library, and then place them in order in the timeline.

 import  import your media files to Filmora

  • If you need to cut out some clips from the footage, you can trim, split, or crop it easily. Right-click the footage in the timeline, and you will find the most commonly used editing tools.
  • You can follow the software layout to add audio, titles, transitions, effects, elements accordingly. If you wish to add sound to your video , go to “Audio” tab, find the proper music track or sound effect for your footage, and then drag it to the soundtrack in the timeline.

 add sound effects

  • The titles tab provides hundreds of titles and texts templates, including openers, titles, Lower 3rds, subtitles, and end credits. You can also use the Plain text template without animations and add some callouts.
  • In the next step, add overlays or transitions in your video , and if you have finished the editing, press Ctrl+S to save the project.

 add transitions

  • Finally, click on the “Export” button and select the “Local” tab. Choose a name and file format for your video and tap “Export.”

save your video

Once you are done with compiling one video, follow the same steps as mentioned above twice more so that you have exported three videos in total from Filmora. You can see your progress in the gift box in the right corner. Click Claim Your Rewards and you will a pop-up window as shown below.

 claim your Filmora license

Now, click the Claim your Free 7-day License button, by doing so, you will get the Filmora License, i.e., your Filmora version is now full and free.

Once you have acquired the Filmora free license, you can go back and import the previous projects, edit again and remove the watermark.

Launch Filmora again, and then find the project you just made in the Start window and open it. Or you can click New Project to enter the main interface, click File - Open Recent, find the project. Log in with your Wondershare ID and click on the “Export” button. Your video will now be exported without a watermark.

This method is quite easy to get the Filmora free version. But as it said before, it is a 7-day limited license, how about if you want it to be longer? No worries, read on and you will find out how.

Part 2: Most Easy and Creative Features in Filmora (You Should Definitely Try)

Now you have the Filmora free version on your device. That means that you have now successfully gained access to multiple features of Wondershare Filmora for free. Filmora offers its users several unique and creative features that can be used to make your videos top-notch. Mastering these tools requires lots of practice, but the end result is definitely worth it all.

There are various tools offered by Filmora that can help elevate the rank of your videos to make them top-tier, but they are often overlooked. Users generally do not have an idea of how to make the most out of their tool. Here, we have mentioned some of the fun and easy-to-use features offered by Filmora that you should definitely try as an aspiring content creator.

1. Filmora Green Screen

The Green Screen effect by Filmora is an advanced feature of the Overlays option. It enables users to combine two overlaid clips in such a way that the background of the lower layer can be visible on the top layer. It uses a color range in the top clip to make it shine through. You can get this effect by using a green background while shooting videos.

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The Green Screen effect can be used to place subjects over a number of different backgrounds. You can make a green screen on Filmora by simply clicking on the chroma key. It also offers spill removal, color correction, filters, and transition effects to use on your green screen.

2. Filmora Split Screen

The Split Screen feature in Wondershare Filmora allows you to display multiple clips on the screen at the same time. This feature comes in handy when you want to compare different angled shots or add two or more clips to your video. The effect helps users to add a specific style and class into your video.

Filmora currently offers around 30 split screen templates. You can add up to 6 different video clips in these presets at the same time. The default duration of the split screen is 5 seconds, but you can adjust it according to your requirements. You can add all kinds of borders, do a color correction, tuning and apply motion effects on your split-screen.

3. Filmora Beat Detection

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor offers a Beat Detection option for users, which marks audio beats from the inserted sound clip in your video automatically. The tool makes it easy to match your edits with the music, allowing a smooth clip. Analyzing and detecting the beats is entirely automatic. Using Filmora, syncing your video to the music is now relatively easy and quick. Even the customization of beat markers doesn’t take long. It is an excellent tool for filming, even for people who are first-timers. You can change the highlight beat frequency, offset or add transitions in your beats. This will allow your videos to appear more in-sync and vivid.

Conclusion

You can now go on and spread the news. Wondershare Filmora can now be downloaded and used for free without paying any extra money. Using the methods mentioned above, you can get Filmora free download on your device without any crack or spending a dollar. Also, try the wonderful features of Filmora to get the most out of your videos and photos.

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Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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Also read:

  • Title: Updated 2024 Approved Windows 11/10 Video Editing Best iMovie-Like Software Options
  • Author: MdadeLe
  • Created at : 2024-04-28 15:03:55
  • Updated at : 2024-04-29 15:03:55
  • Link: https://smart-video-editing.techidaily.com/updated-2024-approved-windows-1110-video-editing-best-imovie-like-software-options/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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Updated 2024 Approved Windows 11/10 Video Editing Best iMovie-Like Software Options